Adult Protective Services

Adult Protective Services (APS) is a state mandated program provided without regard to income to assist vulnerable adults in our community. Services are aimed at maintaining individuals in the community as long as possible.

APS clients are among the most vulnerable and neglected members of the community: the frail elderly, the mentally ill, persons that are developmentally challenged, those suffering acute and chronic physical illness, dementia or other conditions associated with aging and mental or physical handicaps. Persons are eligible for APS as long as they meet the following criteria:

They have a physical or mental impairment; and

They are not able to protect themselves from neglect, financial exploitation, physical and sexual abuse.

They are not able to provide for their basic needs for food, clothing, shelter and medical care: and

There is no one that is willing or able to help in a responsible manner.

Our Guiding Principles

Right to Self-Determination: A competent adult has the right to exercise free choice in decision making. Without clear evidence of risk, APS must refrain from imposing their own or societal values and standards. If a person is capable of understanding the risk and consequences of their choices or behavior then APS will respect their right to self-determination and will work with that individual to develop a mutually agreed upon plan for services to reduce the risks.

States Authority to Intervene: When there is a serious threat to the safety and well-being of an adult and the adult is incapable of making choices regarding the danger because of a temporary or permanent impairment, APS is obligated to secure service to ensure that person’s safety.

Least Restrictive Alternative: Interventions are limited to specific actions required to address specific dangers. While efforts are made to provide needed services in the adult’s own home, alternate living arrangements may be considered.

Our Service Delivery

APS is required to act on referrals that may be life threatening within 24 hours of the receipt of the information. For other referrals, assessment is begun within 72 hours and a home visit is made within the first three working days. Some referrals are closed during intake if the eligibility requirements are not met and services are not needed. An assessment and service plan must be developed within 60 days of the referral. APS assesses the risks facing a client, his or her ability to deal with the situation and their willingness to accept assistance. APS tries to establish a trusting relationship with the client so that services may be provided on a voluntary basis and they usually are. Efforts are made to contact family, friends, neighbors and other community based services in order to determine the client’s capacity to function independently, make decisions on his or her own behalf and to understand the consequences of those decisions. In most situations APS involvement is short term.

Some of the services we provide include:

Counseling: APS provides direct counseling to encourage a person to accept needed services. We may also meet together with family members or other persons involved.

Case Management: APS locates medical care, services and other resources in the community. This my include arranging for medical or psychiatric assessments and treatment, home health care, home delivered meals, and chore services.

Advocacy: APS assists in obtaining benefits and services including applying for entitlements.

Money Management: including acting as representative payee.

Relocation: Finding alternative living arrangements, including arranging for adult home placement, nursing home or other supported housing.

Crisis Intervention: such as Access orders, assistance in obtaining orders of protection, assistance in obtaining treatment in a psychiatric or developmental center.

Other Legal Interventions-APS must petition the courts when long term management of impaired persons and or their property is required.

Making a referral

Any vulnerable adult or concerned person may contact APS to inquire about available services. A well informed intake caseworker will guide you through the process of making a referral. The identity of the referral source is confidential or you may remain anonymous.